AGP Executive Report

Ebola Cross-Border Alarm: Humanitarian groups warn Ebola could spread from eastern DR Congo into South Sudan as the outbreak hits 60 health zones, with new health zones reported in North Kivu and WHO/UNMISS teams screening travellers at border crossings. Canada Travel Curbs: Canada extends Ebola-related entry bans for people from DR Congo, Uganda and South Sudan for 30 more days, keeping thousands in visa limbo and maintaining 21-day quarantines. Cattle Raid Death Toll: In Warrap’s Tonj North, armed raiders killed at least 49 and wounded 33 in an attack on a cattle camp, with officials linking the violence to cross-border cattle raiding and scarce grazing and water. UN Peacekeeping Under Fire: The AU condemns the killing of two Ethiopian UNMISS peacekeepers in Jonglei and calls for an immediate investigation and prosecutions. Elections & Civic Peace: Central Equatoria Governor Emmanuel Adil urges dialogue, peace messaging, and a crackdown on misinformation ahead of December elections. Courtroom Politics: Prosecutors and defence clash over how Riek Machar should present his defence in the Nasir incident trial, with procedure now at the centre of arguments. Local Governance: Juba City Council warns residents that dumping rubbish on streets is a crime and says waste collection is running across all quarter councils.

Machar Trial: Prosecutors at the Special Court in Juba say their counter-application is not meant to single out suspended First Vice President Riek Machar, but to clarify the correct procedure for all remaining defendants. Intercommunal Violence: In Warrap’s Tonj North, armed cattle raiders linked to Unity State killed at least 49 people and wounded 33 after attacking a herders’ cattle camp at dawn, with authorities calling for restraint and cross-state cooperation to arrest perpetrators. UN Peace & Accountability: The UN Security Council strongly condemned a Jonglei ambush that killed two UNMISS peacekeepers and injured seven, warning such attacks may amount to war crimes and demanding a full investigation. Diplomacy Ahead of Elections: South Sudan summoned ambassadors of Germany, Japan, Norway and the US over a joint statement urging renewed inter-party dialogue and an end to violence ahead of December 2026 elections. Humanitarian Governance: Northern Bahr el Ghazal banned the sale of humanitarian supplies in local markets and confiscated Plumpy’Nut and Corn-Soy Blend over alleged diversion. Infrastructure & Elections Politics: VP Taban Deng admitted government failures to build roads and energy infrastructure, urging regional support for key corridors like Juba–Nimule and Juba–Nadapal.

UN Security Council Condemnation: The UN Security Council strongly condemned a Jonglei ambush on a UNMISS force-protection convoy that killed two peacekeepers and wounded seven, warning attacks on peacekeepers may amount to war crimes and demanding a full investigation. Elections & Diplomacy: South Sudan summoned ambassadors from Germany, Japan, Norway and the United States over a “divisive” joint statement urging inter-party dialogue and an end to violence ahead of December elections, while the foreign ministry also urged regional and international partners to support peaceful polls. Security & Violence: Warrap reported a deadly Tonj North cattle raid killing 49 and injuring 33, blaming armed criminals from neighbouring Unity. Humanitarian Crackdown: Northern Bahr el Ghazal banned the sale of humanitarian supplies in markets and seized nutrition items, accusing diversion. Aid & Health: Japan pledged $2.2m to WFP for nutrition services for over 40,000 women and children, as funding gaps threaten continuity. Regional Engagement: President Salva Kiir met South Africa’s Cyril Ramaphosa in Pretoria as election and security pressures mount. Missing Persons: ICRC and South Sudan Red Cross reported 188 people clarified as missing since January–June, with 6,200 cases still active.

Oil & Industry: The Ministry of Petroleum says output is now about 175,000 barrels per day and targets at least 200,000 bpd by next year, citing technology upgrades as some fields age. It also plans two new refineries—Unity and Upper Nile—with a combined 60,000 bpd capacity to cut fuel imports and lower prices. Security & Violence: Duk County in Jonglei reports six deaths and 21 injuries after two days of inter-clan clashes, with dialogue now underway to contain the fighting. UN Protection Under Pressure: Juba condemned the killing of two UNMISS peacekeepers in Jonglei and called for a joint, thorough investigation; EU missions and Ethiopia also demanded accountability. Humanitarian Crisis: Japan and WFP signed a $2.2m deal for nutrition support for nearly 40,000 women and children as 7.8m face acute food insecurity. Refugee Tensions: At Uganda’s Imvepi settlement, riots tied to Refugee Welfare Council elections left two refugees dead and led to at least 41 arrests after UNHCR and OPM offices were torched. Politics & Dialogue: Germany, Japan, Norway and the US urged urgent inter-party dialogue and an end to violence after a public dispute involving VP Rebecca Nyandeng. Courts: In Dr. Riek Machar’s Nasir trial, defence lawyers opposed a prosecution bid to change how accused are questioned before submitting written defences. Governance: Lakes State swore in new cabinet, commissioners and commission heads, urging service delivery and security.

UN Peacekeeping Attack: The UAE strongly condemned the attack on a UNMISS patrol in Jonglei that killed two peacekeepers and injured others, calling it a breach of international law and urging accountability. EU Condemnation: The EU and European embassies also demanded a full, transparent investigation, warning attacks on peacekeepers may amount to war crimes. Jonglei Probe Promise: South Sudan’s foreign ministry said it will push for a joint and thorough investigation and hold those responsible accountable. Diplomacy on Dialogue: Germany, Japan, Norway and the US urged South Sudan to restart authentic inter-party dialogue and renounce violence after meetings with VP Rebecca Nyandeng. Elections & Security: CTSAMVM urged parties to stop abductions and forced recruitment, while opposition and political parties pressed for faster deployment of unified forces ahead of December elections. Humanitarian Funding: Japan and WFP signed a $2.2m deal to deliver lifesaving food and nutrition support to nearly 40,000 women and children. Food Security & Drought: Agriculture Minister Clement Juma Mbugoniwia called for more direct drought funding as floods and droughts hit millions. Justice in Nasir Trial: Defence lawyers for Riek Machar opposed prosecution moves to change questioning procedures before written defence statements. Lakes State Governance: Lakes Governor Madhang Majok Meen swore in new cabinet, commissioners and commission members, warning against abuse of power. Transport Reform: The transport ministry says South Sudan aims to become a regional logistics hub, with new transport bills and corridor plans. Immigration Crackdown: Civil registry and immigration authorities halted a “Silence Search” credentials operation pending coordination with security and diplomatic bodies.

UN Security & Accountability: South Sudan condemned the Aug. 24 ambush on a UNMISS convoy in Jonglei that killed two Ethiopian peacekeepers and wounded seven, calling for a joint investigation and legal accountability. Elections & Security Forces: Party representatives at CTSAMVM urged faster deployment of unified forces, warning delays could derail December election preparations and security. Economic Reform: The Economic Reform Committee ordered a reduction of security personnel at Mabil checkpoint to curb illegal checkpoints and unauthorized fees on the Juba–Bahr el Ghazal highway. Infrastructure & Trade: Roads Minister Peter Lam Both urged investors to fund road upgrades, citing the Juba–Nimule corridor’s damage from overloaded regional trucks and promising weighbridge controls. Humanitarian & Rights: Two refugees died and 37 were arrested after violent riots at Imvepi settlement over Refugee Welfare Council nominations. Women’s Leadership: EU outgoing deputy head Lothar Jaschke urged voters to elect women into power, linking inclusive governance to protected civic space. Public Safety & Governance: Lakes governor warned newly sworn officials against abuse of power, including past allegations of brutality. Education & Skills: MoHEST announced 15 fully funded Algerian TVET scholarships for 2026/2027. Health & Basic Services: Civil society warned of a water crisis in Kapoeta East’s gold-mining area, urging emergency supplies and boreholes. Personal Security: Ex-MP Nhial Bol Aken said armed men tried to force entry into his Juba home, claiming intimidation by the Tiger Division.

UN Security & Accountability: South Sudan’s government condemned an ambush on a UNMISS patrol in Jonglei that killed two Ethiopian peacekeepers and wounded seven, calling for a joint, thorough investigation and warning that those responsible will be held accountable under the law. Diplomatic Pressure: The UN chief also strongly condemned the attack, saying attacks on peacekeepers may amount to war crimes, while EU missions and partners demanded a full, transparent probe. Immigration & Rule of Law: South Sudan’s immigration authorities halted “silent search” operations targeting migrants, citing concerns over legality and oversight, and said such checks will resume only after proper approvals and wider consultation. Economy & Infrastructure: Roads and Bridges Minister Peter Lam Both blamed overloaded East African trucks for rapid damage to the Juba–Nimule trade corridor, pointing to a new weighbridge in Nimule to control axle loads during reconstruction. Public Finance & Local Governance: Juba City Council proposed cutting property/rental value tax from 8.3% to 6% to ease burdens and boost compliance. Health & Humanitarian Risk: UN agencies warned 650,000 Sudanese refugees in South Sudan face losing life-saving food aid as funding runs out. Conservation & Security: 50 wildlife rangers graduated after two months of anti-poaching training for Badingilo National Park, aimed at strengthening patrols and protecting South Sudan’s World Heritage site.

UN Peacekeeping Under Fire: Two Ethiopian UN peacekeepers were killed and seven others injured in an ambush on a UNMISS patrol in Jonglei while heading to Pajut, prompting UN chief António Guterres and the UN mission to warn attacks on peacekeepers may amount to war crimes and to demand a prompt investigation. International Pressure: The EU and European governments backed calls for full accountability, while the U.S. and RJMEC also condemned the attack on the UN convoy. Local Governance & Taxes: Juba City Council proposes cutting property/rental value tax from 8.3% to 6% to ease burdens and improve compliance, alongside calls to harmonize taxes across government levels. Public Sector Pay: South Sudan has begun paying salaries for public sector workers, starting with organized forces, under the Economic Reform Committee’s process. Legislative Coordination: National and state assembly speakers move to establish a Speakers’ Forum to improve inter-parliamentary coordination and harmonize legislation. Child Protection: Police officers in Juba start training on child protection focal points to prevent violations against children, including recruitment and use in armed conflict. Women & Peacebuilding: Women in Lakes State conclude a peace conference in Rumbek focused on conflict prevention, resilience, and women’s participation in peace efforts. Sports Oversight: Central Equatoria lifts its suspension on community sports tournaments in Juba but requires official approval and tighter security and discipline. Ebola Preparedness: South Sudan steps up Ebola readiness amid fears of spread from DRC, including surveillance, screening, facility prep, and training.

UN Security & Accountability: UNMISS says two Ethiopian peacekeepers were killed and seven others injured in an ambush on a patrol heading to Pajut in Jonglei, with the UN warning attacks on Blue Helmets may amount to war crimes and calling for a prompt investigation. International Condemnation: India and the U.S. Embassy in Juba both condemned the attack and urged accountability, while the UN noted the incident brings peacekeeper deaths in malicious acts since January to nine. Elections Prep: An African Union pre-election and needs assessment mission led by Geoffrey Onyeama met South Sudan officials, reporting “positive indications” on December 2026 election preparations. Local Governance & Youth: Central Equatoria lifted a suspension on community football tournaments in Juba after a security meeting, setting conditions for remaining matches to resume. Public Administration: The VP’s office denied reports that Rebecca Nyandeng was blocked at Juba airport, saying presidential clearance for her Kenya trip was simply not granted in time. Education Milestone: Catholic University’s CuoSS campus held a historic graduation, with leaders calling for stronger universities to produce professionals and innovators for South Sudan.

Elections & Diplomacy: President Salva Kiir is in South Africa for talks with Cyril Ramaphosa on December 2026 polls and implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, with the presidency stressing peace and unity ahead of voting. Local Governance: Juba’s new mayor, Christopher Sarafino Wani, says the city council is rolling out reforms focused on resident consultations, tighter financial controls, and better core services. Urban Economy: A proposal would modernize part of Juba’s Konyo-Konyo Market into a commercial hub with about 800 shopping spaces, aiming to tackle congestion, waste, drainage and fire risks. Rule of Law & Rights: The U.S. Embassy renewed its call for a credible investigation into the 2017 death of journalist Christopher Allen, while a separate U.S. court ruling struck down a Trump immigrant visa freeze affecting South Sudan and other African countries. Public Finance & Corruption Signals: The Ministry of Interior ordered police to stop illegal fees collected from EAC citizens at borders and the airport, warning of disciplinary action. Infrastructure & Economy: A policy analyst warns the Juba–Nimule road’s deterioration is turning a trade corridor into a costly bottleneck for food and goods. Peacebuilding: SSPDF Chief of Defence Forces visited thousands of former SPLM-IO fighters in Western Equatoria as registration and integration preparations continue. Civic Education: Religious leaders were urged to use churches and mosques to spread voter education and promote peaceful participation ahead of elections.

Elections & Diplomacy: President Salva Kiir left Juba for Pretoria to seek South Africa’s support for South Sudan’s Dec. 22, 2026 elections and to review progress on the 2018 peace deal, electoral timelines, and national dialogue. Civic Education & Peace: NEC and JICA brought faith leaders into voter education workshops in Juba, urging churches and mosques to promote peaceful participation and accurate election information. Security & Integration: Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Santino Deng Wol visited 3,000 former SPLM-IO fighters in Western Equatoria as the government moves to register, verify and integrate them into the national army, warning them to stay disciplined and out of politics. UNMISS & Civilian Protection: UNMISS boosted patrols around Bentiu IDP camp after deadly violence linked to an attempted arrest of a self-proclaimed prophet, calling for dialogue and de-escalation. Governance & Rule of Law: The Ministry of Interior ordered police to stop illegal fees and extortion from EAC citizens at airports and border points, warning of immediate disciplinary action. Parliament & Regional Ties: Parliament approved South Sudan–Saudi Arabia cooperation, opening a framework for direct institutional and economic partnerships in areas like agriculture, education, mining and infrastructure. Court Watch: Juba court dismissed a criminal case against six Moru Congregation members in a long-running church administration and property dispute. International Pressure Debate: PCCA pushed back on the presidency’s sovereignty message, arguing sovereignty belongs to the people and elections can’t replace reforms. Regional Economy: Aliko Dangote offered East African states a combined 30% stake in his planned Lamu refinery, with Kenya expected to take 10%.

Presidential Politics & Sovereignty: The Office of the President pushed back on calls to “rewrite” South Sudan’s liberation history, defending Salva Kiir’s role and warning against political “distortions,” while civil rights group PCCA fired back that sovereignty belongs to the people, not the presidency. Elections Readiness: Kiir ordered the National Elections Commission to speed up preparations for the December 22 polls, as religious leaders urged churches and mosques to drive voter education and peace. Interior Crackdown on Fees: The Ministry of Interior ordered police to stop illegal money collection from EAC citizens at Juba airport and border points, citing EAC free-movement obligations. Regional Diplomacy: Kiir left Juba for Pretoria to seek South Africa’s support for the 2026 elections and review bilateral commitments. Legislature & Foreign Ties: Parliament approved the South Sudan–Saudi Arabia cooperation accord, paving the way for partnerships in agriculture, education, mining and infrastructure. Security in Bentiu: UNMISS boosted patrols around Bentiu IDP camp after deadly violence linked to an attempted arrest of a self-proclaimed prophet. Youth & Local Business: A youth leader demanded protection for young entrepreneurs, alleging foreign intimidation over locally made electricity poles. Higher Education: Algeria scholarships worth 150 slots were announced for 2026/27, with applications opening Aug 24. International Legal Fallout: A US judge struck down Trump’s immigrant visa suspension affecting 75 countries, including South Sudan, calling it unlawful. Health Crisis Watch: The DRC Ebola outbreak continues to surge, with response efforts struggling to keep pace.

Elections & Sovereignty: SPLM secretary-general Akol Paul Kordit says South Sudan should not be “dictated” on its political future, as President Kiir orders the National Elections Commission to speed up preparations for the Dec 22 polls and voter registration. Courts & Religion: A Juba court dismissed a criminal case against six Moru Congregation members in a long-running dispute with the Episcopal Diocese over church administration and property. Health & Security: UN officials warn DR Congo’s Ebola outbreak is growing “exponentially,” with deaths topping 2,500, while aid workers say quarantine rules and insecurity are slowing response; South Sudan’s HIV/AIDS Commission deputy chief also urged partners to keep supporting the health ministry. Humanitarian & Governance: Inkomoko South Sudan awarded certificates to 1,225 women and youth entrepreneurs after a six-month training programme backed by the Mastercard Foundation and Switzerland. Regional Politics: A South Sudan political scientist backs the government’s sovereignty stance amid rising external pressure around elections.

Elections Push: President Salva Kiir ordered the National Elections Commission to speed up preparations for the December 22 polls, with voter registration expected soon after the commission’s state-wide assessment missions. Peace & Sovereignty Clash: SPLM secretary-general Akol Paul Kordit warned that South Sudan should not be “dictated” by outsiders as international pressure grows over election readiness and peace-agreement safeguards. Opposition Warns: SPLM-IO rejected the December election plan, saying constitutional changes sidestep key conditions like census, permanent constitution and security arrangements, raising fears of renewed conflict. Security & Command: SSPDF distanced itself from claims that Agwelek commander Gen. Ahmed Ashiek was killed, saying unintegrated Agwelek forces still answer to Gen. Johnson Olony. Civics & Inclusion: Women leaders and journalists called for safe, equal participation of women, youth and persons with disabilities in the 2026 elections after a training workshop in Juba. Health Sector Funding: HIV/AIDS Commission deputy chair Dr. Achol Yom urged international partners to keep supporting the Ministry of Health to safeguard investments, as a new UNDP/UNICEF-backed medical store facility was inaugurated. Humanitarian Strain (Regional): UN officials warned DR Congo’s Ebola outbreak is spreading “exponentially,” with deaths surpassing 2,500, while frontline health workers report fear and unpaid wages. Economy & Governance: Parliament questioned repeated telecom tariff hikes, while Juba International Airport expanded its apron to boost aircraft parking and operations. Public Service Loss: Kiir eulogised former finance minister Salvatore Garang Mabiordit as a dedicated public servant after his death in Juba.

Elections & Sovereignty: SPLM secretary-general Akol Paul Kordit says South Sudan “should not be dictated” by foreign governments as December polls face mounting pressure over delayed peace-agreement steps. Opposition Pushback: SPLM-IO rejects the election plan, warning constitutional changes are meant to sidestep key safeguards like the census, permanent constitution and security arrangements. Legal Battle in Court: Riek Machar’s defence team opposes a proposal to replace their lawyers, arguing defendants have the right to choose counsel. Security & Command Structure: SSPDF distances itself from reports that Agwelek commander Gen. Ahmed Ashiek was killed, saying unintegrated Agwelek forces still answer to Gen. Johnson Olony. Cross-Border Tensions: South Sudan releases Ugandan drivers and trucks seized in Bor after diplomatic pressure, while SSPDF denies soldiers were behind alleged abductions. Public Accountability: Parliament questions repeated telecom tariff hikes as operators cite exchange-rate and regulator requirements. Health Crisis: UN says DR Congo’s Ebola outbreak is growing “exponentially,” with deaths surging and response struggling to keep up. Civic & Inclusion: Women leaders call for safe, equal participation of women, youth and persons with disabilities in 2026 elections; South Sudan Blind Football reaches global award finalists. Economy & Trade: Juba mourns ex-Finance Minister Kosti Manibe; Inkomoko awards certificates to 1,225 entrepreneurs; Dangote offers East Africa a 30% stake in a planned Lamu refinery.

Elections & Peace Risks: South Sudan’s government says there will be no extension of the transition beyond December 2026, even as the UN warns that elections without safeguards could trigger renewed conflict and atrocity crimes. Sovereignty vs Pressure: President Salva Kiir and the presidency push back on international calls for reforms, insisting elections and political decisions must be driven by South Sudanese institutions. Constitution Drive: The NCRC says permanent constitution-making is over 70% complete and will move toward a drafting committee to produce a “zero draft.” Local Security & Justice: In Bentiu IDP camp, violence erupted during an attempted arrest of self-proclaimed prophet Taban Puol, leaving at least nine dead and dozens injured. Upper Nile Humanitarian Access: Upper Nile plans a peace and reconciliation conference to reopen the Sobat Corridor for aid delivery and commerce. Public Order Crackdown: Greater Pibor authorities arrested 12 suspected drug dealers in Pibor Town and publicly burned seized narcotics. Cross-Border Tensions: SSPDF denies abducting Ugandan truck drivers in Bor, saying armed civilians were responsible. Health Watch: DR Congo’s Ebola outbreak keeps worsening, with WHO and MSF warning it is far from under control; the US also tightens travel rules affecting South Sudan and Uganda. Regional Economy: A ministerial committee directs Finance to resume paying public salaries after a reported rise in cash collections. Sports Youth Pipeline: Kenya will host ANOCA Zone V Youth Games in Nairobi later this month, with South Sudan among the participating countries.